Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer; around 46,700 new cases are diagnosed in the UK every year – that’s nearly 130 every day.

The North West has one of the highest rates of lung cancer in the UK, so it is vital that people are aware of the symptoms. Lung cancer is often detected once it has reached stage four, so in order for people to get effective treatment, early diagnosis is crucial.

Staff at Southport and Ormskirk hospitals are working to raise awareness with health professional and local communities, so that survival rates can be improved.

The main symptoms of lung cancer include:

· A cough that does not go away after two or three weeks
· A long-standing cough that gets worse
· Persistent chest infections
· Coughing up blood
· An ache or pain when breathing or coughing
· Persistent breathlessness
· Persistent tiredness or lack of energy
· Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss

If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your GP.

Melanie Barron, Macmillan lung cancer nurse specialist explains: “As November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, our lung nurses have been helping to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms at a stall recently in Southport District General Hospital. Early detection and prevention of lung cancer is vital, in order for our patients to enjoy better outcomes.”

For more information please visit www.lcam.org

The clue is stated above about not just lung but other cancers as well. If you have a persistent cough, a constant ache that simply won't go away or any other strange feeling that upon which no amount of over-the-counter medicines fail to shift, then get straight to your doctor.
This could save your life and you should not delay.